The memory of a smile

Each of us have a story we could tell how a smile given or received changed the course of events in our lives.

I know I could sit here and tell you many stories.  

Since the early 80's I began to really appreciate the value of a smile regardless of any imperfections my worldly mind has placed in my head.  I have a broad smile, most times my gums are showing, creating multiple smile lines all around my cheeks, and streaks of those same lines extending from my eyes.  When I was a little girl I use to not smile much because the others kids made fun of me and called me gummy.  Imagine that!  Smiles are not just the curvature of ones lips, it's a way to express, from your heart, when words may not be enough.

One morning last year, as I woke up, this idea was in my head.  It's been residing in my heart waiting to come to fruition.  Lately,  I've been feeling little nudges , again, urging me to get this out of my heart and out into the world.   This time I decided to listen and act upon it.  This is my vision so far, it could change,  because I am trying to follow my heart

I am asking that you, YES YOU, join me and these ladies above.

It's really simple.  All you have to do is:

• Send me a hi-res photo of you smiling.  (Note:  you probably already have one on your facebook timeline)  
• Email it to me at smileee001@aol.com and the subject line should say Smiling Project.
• When I get your photo I will do a charcoal drawing of you which will eventually become part of a larger piece of art.

Let me close with this poem that will give you a glimpse into the value of a smile.  Then come join in the fun.

A Smile

Consider for a little while

The power of the human smile.

It may seem such a minor thing,

But it can cause one's heart to sing!

In times of sorrow or despair,

It's silent message is, "I care."

If one is feeling weak and spent,

A smile conveys encouragement.

When anger drives two folks apart,

A smile can mean a brand-new start.

Between two people who have cared,

A smile recalls a moment shared.

When fears have someone all up-tight,

A smile says, "It will be alright."

When separation brings a tear,

A smile says, "I'll be waiting here."

And then, as well, it has the knack

Of saying, warmly "Welcome Back."

A smile's the sunshine after rain,

A smile's the joy that follows pain.

Oh, what a difference it makes!

What little effort smiling takes!

Consider then, for just a while,

The power of the human smile.

A smile is not a minor thing

Its use can cause one's heart to sing.

                                    C.M.P